Roku Pro Series TV vs VIZIO E701i-A3: Is 4K QLED Worth the Upgrade Over 1080p for Your Viewing Experience?

[Harry Williams]

When it comes to selecting the right TV for your home, the choice often boils down to personal preference and budget. Today, we're putting two contenders head-to-head: the Roku Pro Series TV and the VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV.

The Roku Pro Series TV boasts a stunning 75-inch QLED display, designed for those who crave an immersive viewing experience with its brilliant 4K picture and Dolby Vision IQ technology. It promises razor-sharp details and depth through thousands of mini-LEDs, making it an attractive centerpiece for any entertainment setup.

On the other hand, the VIZIO E701i-A3 offers a more budget-friendly alternative, emphasizing instant access to internet apps for movies and music, along with its sleek, ultra-thin design. While it may not deliver the same level of picture quality, its rich colors and vivid details still make it a respectable option for casual viewers.

So, which one truly offers the best value for your hard-earned money? Let’s dive into the specifics and see how these two TVs compare in real-world scenarios.

Specs Comparison​

Basic​

Parameter	Roku Pro Series TV​	VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV​
Picture​	​	​
Screen Size​	75 Inches​	70 Inches​
Reference Price​	$998​	-​
Model Year​	2024​	2013​
Specific Uses​	Entertainment, Gaming​	-​
Operating System​	Roku OS​	-​
Internet Applications​	Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Hulu, Apple TV​	Netflix, Pandora, Vudu, Amazon Instant Video, YouTube​
Remote Control​	WiFi​	-​
Controller Type​	Remote Control​	Remote Control​
Control Method​	Voice​	Remote​
Highlight​	Elevate your entertainment: For TV buffs with taste—the Roku Pro Series TV is your centerpiece. Enjoy a powerfully simple streaming experience with brilliant 4K picture, immersive audio, and an elegant design. 75-Inch smart TV. Bright, colorful picture: Watch rich, accurate hues pop off the QLED screen. Movies, TV and games come to life in exceptional clarity with Dolby Vision IQ. Razor-sharp details: Dive into vivid highlights, deeper darks, and realistic depth with thousands of mini-LEDs that send light to the right places.	VIZIO Internet Apps Instantly enjoy online movies, TV shows, music, apps and more Razor LED for richer colors and more vivid details in an ultra thin design Slim frame design with ultra thin profile beautifully enhances any living space

Display​

Parameter	Roku Pro Series TV​	VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV​
Aspect Ratio​	16:9​	16:9​
Display Technology​	QLED​	LED​
Screen Finish​	Glossy​	flat​
Has Color Screen​	Yes​	-​
Resolution​	4K​	1080p​
Refresh Rate​	120 Hz​	120 Hz​
Response Time​	-​	6 Milliseconds​
HDR Format​	HLG, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision​	-​
Backlight Technology​	Mini-LED​	-​
Backlight Setting​	Full Array Local Dimming​	-​
Picture Enhancement​	Roku Smart Picture Max​	[IN] LED, 1080p, 120 Hz, 1,000,000:1 contrast​
Motion Enhancement​	120Hz refresh rate​	[IN]​
Video Encoding​	HEVC, VP9​	AVC​
Signal Format​	QAM​	HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Composite Video, ATSC​
Screen Mirroring​	DIAL, AirPlay 2, Miracast​	-​

Features​

Parameter	Roku Pro Series TV​	VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV​
Audio Channels​	5.1, 4.1​	2.1​
Audio Output​	Surround​	-​
Audio Input​	HDMI​	HDMI​
Speaker Description​	Dolby Atmos, Roku Soundstage Audio​	built-in speaker channel​
Surround Sound​	Dolby Atmos​	-​
Compatible Devices​	Laptop, Gaming Console, Smartphone​	-​
Tuner Type​	ATSC​	ATSC​
Voltage​	120 Volts (AC)​	10 Volts​
Line Voltage​	110 VAC 60 Hz​	100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz​
Connectivity Technology​	Bluetooth, Usb C, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, HDMI​	Smart​
Bluetooth Version​	5.2​	-​
Wireless Technology​	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Infrared​	Wi-Fi​
Usb Ports​	2​	2​
HDMI Ports​	4​	4​
Audio Out Ports​	2​	1​
Connector Type​	RF, USB, Optical, Ethernet, HDMI​	-​
Other Features​	Game Mode, Bezel-Less Design, Local Dimming, Ambient Light Sensor, Dolby Vision​	Flat​
D x W x H​	1.99"D x 64.06"W x 41"H​	-​

Side-by-Side Comparison​

System Experience​

Parameter	Roku Pro Series TV​	VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV​
System Experience	I recently upgraded to the Roku Pro Series TV, and I must say, the entire setup process was surprisingly straightforward. It felt seamless as the TV almost did all the work for me. The remote is compact and intuitive, which made navigating through the setup a breeze. I appreciated how it recognized my existing Roku devices instantly, allowing me to get right into watching my favorite shows without any hassle.	I had been eagerly anticipating the arrival of my VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV, and when it finally got delivered, I was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. The setup process was surprisingly smooth, and I appreciated how easy it was to connect it to my Wi-Fi network. It took less than five minutes to get it online. I did encounter a little hiccup when I had to help the delivery guy carry it inside, but once it was set up, I couldn’t wait to dive into the viewing experience.

Viewing Experience​

Parameter	Roku Pro Series TV​	VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV​
Viewing Experience	The picture quality is absolutely stunning! The colors are vibrant, and the contrast between bright and dark scenes is impeccable. I can finally enjoy my movies and shows without straining my eyes to see the details. Watching familiar content feels like a brand-new experience, as I've been blown away by the clarity and depth this TV provides. It truly elevates my viewing experience, and I find myself marveling at the sharpness and richness of the visuals.	The picture quality is absolutely stunning. After some adjustments to the settings, I was blown away by the vibrant colors and clarity. The depth in the images really makes a difference, especially when watching movies or playing video games. I’ve always been one to appreciate a great visual experience, and this TV delivers. The blacks are deep enough for my liking, although I have had moments where they appear a tad gray during particularly dark scenes, but it hasn’t detracted from my enjoyment overall.

Audio Experience​

Parameter	Roku Pro Series TV​	VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV​
Audio Experience	I was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality that comes out of the TV speakers. It’s powerful and clear enough that I don’t feel the immediate need for a soundbar. However, I did connect my JBL surround sound system, and the integration was flawless. The sound fills the room beautifully, and I can appreciate the depth and nuances in the audio, which brings my favorite movies and shows to life in a way I didn’t expect.	While the sound quality is decent, it’s nothing to write home about. I found it a bit lacking in depth and richness, especially compared to my external speaker setup. I quickly hooked it up to my surround sound system, and that elevated my viewing experience significantly. I think most people would probably do the same, given the size of the TV, so it’s not a major concern for me.

Other Experience​

Parameter	Roku Pro Series TV​	VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV​
Other Experience	One thing that stands out to me is how user-friendly the Roku interface is. I love that I can access all my favorite streaming services without jumping through hoops. However, I did notice some quirks with the software, particularly with how some apps stay open in the background. While it can be a bit annoying, I find that it doesn’t detract significantly from my overall satisfaction with the TV. I also really appreciate the backlit remote, which makes it easy to use in dim lighting.	One of my greatest joys was exploring the Smart TV features. I love having easy access to streaming apps, and the Vizio didn’t disappoint. The interface is user-friendly, although I did encounter some quirks with the Amazon app, which felt a bit clunky compared to others. Overall, I found myself using the TV for a variety of purposes—from binge-watching my favorite shows to gaming with friends, and it performed admirably.

Our Verdict​

Roku Pro Series TV：​

Pros:
There are so many positives to this TV! The picture quality is top-notch, the sound is impressive without needing additional speakers, and the setup was simple. I love the Roku ecosystem, which makes it easy to transition between devices. The remote is a joy to use, and the fact that it charges via USB-C is a nice touch. Overall, it feels like a high-quality product that offers great value for the price.

Cons:
The only real drawbacks I've encountered so far are the occasional software quirks and the somewhat limited ability to customize the home screen. Sometimes, the automatic features don't quite align with my preferences, and I wish I could have more control over the recommended content. Additionally, the TV is heavier than I anticipated, which made the initial setup a bit cumbersome without help.

Overall Evaluation:
In conclusion, I am genuinely thrilled with my purchase of the Roku Pro Series TV. It has transformed my viewing experience, and I feel like I’ve made a wise investment. The combination of sharp picture quality, impressive sound, and an intuitive interface makes this TV a standout choice. Despite a few minor issues, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality television. It’s definitely worth every penny!

VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV：​

Pros:
The standout feature has to be the price-to-quality ratio. Getting a 70-inch screen with such impressive picture quality for under $2000 felt like a steal! The setup was easy, and the Smart features, once I got the hang of them, added a lot of value to my viewing experience. Plus, the sheer size of the TV brings a cinematic feel to my living room.

Cons:
On the downside, the built-in sound could use some improvement. I wouldn’t say it’s a dealbreaker, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind if you're planning on using the TV's speakers alone. There were also some minor issues with the viewing angles; I noticed a bit of color washout when I wasn’t directly in front of the screen.

Overall Evaluation:
All things considered, I’m quite pleased with my purchase of the VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV. It has met, if not exceeded, my expectations in terms of picture quality and overall functionality. While there are some minor drawbacks, they don’t overshadow the value this TV brings to my home. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a large, high-quality display without breaking the bank.

 

[JazzlikeCustard7611]

Alright, let me tell you about my experience with the VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV. After digging through reviews on this 70" LED TV, I thought, “Heck yeah, let’s do this!” It showed up yesterday (2/4/2013), and while it’s got potential, it was only good for about TWO HOURS. Here’s why it got a big fat one star from me:

1. First off, no WHITE GLOVE delivery. I was waiting around for two and a half hours (they said between 12-15 PM), and finally, one dude shows up. He’s dragging the TV out of the truck by himself, even though the box clearly says “two-person lift.” So, I had to jump in and help him lug it to the basement and unbox it. I even tipped him for his troubles!

2. I let the TV chill for four hours to match the room temp. Hooked it up to my DVD player and PC, turned it on, and the picture looked great—didn’t even mess with settings. My kids and I settled in for a movie, but by the end, the picture started looking all washed out. The black background turned gray with these annoying white lines. And then it started flickering. I switched to other inputs, but no luck. Even the no-signal screen was gray with lines moving around. Seriously?

3. I turned it off, waited an hour, and tried again. Same nonsense. I reset it to factory settings, but it was still acting up. I’m seriously thinking about sending this thing back. Tried again this morning (2/5/2012), and it’s still a bust.

4. I’m starting to think I just got a lemon. It’s wild because everyone else seems to love this 70" TV. I checked out the oldest review on this site, and it was from 12/3/2012. Makes me think maybe not enough time has passed to really know if this TV is solid or not. I looked into the 60" Vizio reviews, and there were tons of “worked great for 2 or 4 months” posts. One guy, “Jasson Legg,” even mentioned a 4% failure rate for Vizio, and I guess I’m the unlucky 4%. So yeah, I’m gonna be returning this thing.

Thanks for reading my rant!

 

[horizon936]

So, I just got my hands on this massive 75" Roku Pro Series TV about a week ago, and let me tell you, it’s a beast! This thing weighs in at a hefty 82 pounds and measures a whopping 66" X 2". The box it came in is no joke either—74" X 7"! I’d say the whole package is around 25 pounds, and trust me, it’s built to keep this beauty safe during transport. You’re gonna want to have a buddy on standby when it’s time to move it; it’s over 100 pounds of TV goodness!

Once you crack it open, you’ll find a solid, heavy-duty flat screen that doesn’t feel flimsy at all. And yeah, it’s HUGE! Setting it up was a breeze—basically, the TV did most of the heavy lifting for me. The remote’s super compact and user-friendly, which is a nice touch.

Now, let’s talk picture quality. It’s absolutely breathtaking! Way brighter than my old 46" SONY Bravia that’s been kicking around for a decade. You can tweak the brightness levels, but I’m loving the automatic setting that adjusts based on how much light is in the room. Seriously, it’s so nice!

Oh, and the sound? It's got this awesome side projection that delivers some impressive bass—like, you can actually feel it without needing a soundbar. I’m totally in love with this TV! Sure, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but when you stack it up against other high-quality, feature-packed TVs, it’s definitely worth it.

 

[manowar09]

So, I recently picked up the VIZIO E701i-A3 HDTV, and I gotta say, I’m pretty stoked about it! I was this close to grabbing a Sharp 70” model, but after diving into a sea of reviews, I decided to save a couple hundred bucks and give Vizio a shot. I’ve heard good things about them and, honestly, the options for 70” LCDs are pretty slim these days.

Everyone seems to have strong feelings about Sharp, with some folks saying their big screens need a pro to come in and tweak the picture because it just won’t look right otherwise. I read tons of reviews, and it felt like every Sharp model had its own set of issues. After hours of research, I was ready to throw in the towel. Then I found the Vizio, and it felt right!

I’ve only had the TV for a week, so I’m still figuring things out. If you’ve got any questions or want me to test something specific, just shoot me a message, and I’ll do my best to help.

I also saw on CNET that the smaller 60” version of this TV might not be as good as the 70” because they fixed some issues in the bigger one. They had some complaints about the blacks not being, well, black enough. That was a concern for me, but I went for it anyway. And honestly? The blacks look pretty solid! I keep my backlight cranked up to 100, contrast at 90, and brightness at 30, which gives me a killer picture. Just a heads up, if you crank those settings too high, the blacks can turn into a gray mess, so play around with it.

Now, I do have one little gripe about the whites. It’s not a dealbreaker by any means, but I noticed that the whites on the Vizio have a bit of a blue tint to them—kind of like looking at a glacier. When I had the 70” Sharp next to a 60”, the smaller one had the brightest, purest whites. The 80” Sharp was a no-go for me; it had the worst picture quality. Just wasn’t cutting it.

I’ve got the Vizio next to my 37” Samsung for comparison, and the Samsung definitely nails that pure white look. But the size difference could be playing a role here too. I cranked everything to 100 on the Vizio, and it still had that blue hue. But oddly enough, when I fired up my PS3, the whites were spot-on! Go figure! It’s a wild ride trying to figure out what affects picture quality, with so many variables at play—screen size, settings, tech differences, you name it.

Here are my settings for both TVs:
- Backlight: 100
- Contrast: 90
- Brightness: 30
- Color: 50
- Tint: +5 on Vizio, 0 on Samsung (just to match skin tones)
- Sharpness: 100 (though sometimes it gets grainy)
- Noise Reduction: Low

After all this back-and-forth, I’ve come to realize that it’s tough to compare TVs perfectly, especially when brands and sizes vary. My best advice? Go with what you like! I didn’t see the Vizio in person before buying it, but I’m happy I took the leap. Just remember that some channels look amazing, while others can be a total flop, and it’s hard to predict what you’ll get.

Oh, and this TV is a smart one with built-in Wi-Fi, but it doesn’t have a browser—just a decent selection of apps like YouTube, Hulu, Netflix, and the like. The menu can be a bit blurry, but honestly, I’m not too fussed about that since the picture looks great.

So, am I happy with my Vizio? Heck yes! I snagged it for $1699, but I was a bit bummed to see it at Costco for $1499. Still, I’m glad I made the choice I did.

If you’re super picky about every little detail in picture quality, go ahead and do your research. But after my experience, I’m done with all that. Just stick with brands you trust, check out the TVs in person, and you’ll be golden.

If you want me to run any tests with your settings or anything, just let me know! Hope this helps with your search, and happy shopping!

 

[JavierMnS]

So, I just got myself a Roku Pro Series TV, and let me tell you, it’s pretty awesome! Like with any new gadget, it takes a little time to get the hang of everything. I’ve been diving into some YouTube videos, and they’ve been super helpful for figuring out all the settings.

After playing around with it for a couple of weeks, I decided to grab the Roku wireless sound bar too, and wow, what a game changer! The combo of the TV and sound bar totally leveled up my viewing experience. Plus, with that enhanced dialogue setting, I can finally hear everything clearly—no more rewinding to catch what I missed! It's been a blast so far!

 

[El_Frijol]

I gotta say, I'm really loving my Roku TV! I'm not the most tech-savvy person out there, so I was on the hunt for a smart TV that wouldn’t leave me scratching my head. I initially wanted to grab one from Costco because they have that awesome concierge service, but they didn’t have it in stock, so I ended up ordering it from Amazon.

One little bummer, though: I kinda thought the plug-ins would be on the side of the TV. Instead, they’re stuck in the back, which means I have to wait for someone to help me move it just to plug in my laptop and stuff. Super annoying! But overall, I’m really happy with my choice!

 

[Fit_Acanthisitta_475]

So, let me tell you about my wild ride with this Roku Pro Series TV. I got it delivered not once, not twice, but three times! The first time was a whole unboxing event, and guess what? Before we even got it out of the box, we realized those 13-inch feet were way too big for my mantle. Ugh! Lesson learned: always measure first! I totally dropped the ball there, but luckily, they took it back without any hassle.

After a bit of hunting for TVs with smaller feet or side feet, I finally decided to go for the 65-inch Roku Pro. I thought, “Alright, I’ll just mount it.” I was a bit hesitant at first since the previous tenant left a mount behind, and I wasn't about to trust their setup with my shiny new TV. So, I bought the right mount for this baby, and honestly, I’m so glad I did. It sits perfectly against the wall, and it wasn’t too hard to install by myself.

I mounted the first TV I got, and wouldn’t you know it, the screen was damaged. Talk about a letdown, right? First world problems, I know, but I was bummed! This TV is heavy, and getting it up there was a workout. You definitely need a buddy for this! But shoutout to Amazon—they picked up the broken TV and had a replacement at my door in less than 24 hours. Seriously, amazing service!

So, I unboxed the new one, put the mount on, and made sure it clicked into place—success! It’s perfect, y’all! I was coming from this old, crusty $300 TV that was over 7 years old. Watching anything dark on that thing was like a guessing game. The lag was real, and the sound? Just meh.

But this new guy? The setup was super easy. It’s got all the apps and channels I love, and the picture quality is out of this world. I can actually see what’s happening on my shows! The sound is way better than my old setup. I’ve never owned a soundbar, and honestly, don’t think I need one with this TV. It’s loud and clear, and it even asks if it’s flush against the wall during setup to adjust the sound settings. How cool is that?

I haven’t really dived into all the settings yet, but so far, I’m stoked. Oh, and the remote? Feels awesome in my hands—way more solid than my old one, plus it charges via USB-C. Fingers crossed this bad boy lasts a long time! I’ll keep you posted if anything changes after a few months, but for now, no news is good news!